DictionarymindPaying attention
verb

mind

To direct careful attention to someone's needs or actions.

She minds the children while their parents work in the garden.

Etymology

The noun originally concerned memory and thought. As a verb, mind developed the idea of keeping someone or something in one's attention, including attentive care.

More examples

  • Please mind your little brother while I answer the door.
  • He minds his mother's instructions when crossing the street.
  • Mind your manners when you speak to the guests.

Forms

mind · minds · minded · minding

mindful adjective — Carefully attentive to someone or something.

Similar words

tend
Tend emphasizes meeting someone's needs through practical care.
watch
Watch emphasizes observing someone closely, especially to ensure safety.
heed
Heed emphasizes following advice or warnings, not providing care.